Here we are, leaving Nantucket Harbor . . .heading home to Martha’s Vineyard . . . MUSICA . . .
It was a short trip, but oh so sweet, we really needed a little summer break, all work and no play makes us dull boys. It’s just so amazing to me that this “other world” is only a one-hour-and-ten-minute boat ride away. Must do more of this! I promised you lots more pictures Girlfriends, and here they are . . .♥
This gate with the little pathway and trellis in Sconset . . .
reminded me of one of my favorite paintings by Beatrix Potter . . .
I showed you some photos of the tiny village of Sconset at the eastern end of Nantucket in my last post, but I’m from the school of “there can never be enough” when it comes to this charming village . . . so here we are again . . .
With small closely-packed cottages, picket fences and porches, and streets made from clam shells . . .
And lovely flower gardens wherever there is a patch of dirt . . .
You can see the rose trellises they put on the roofs here . . . lots of houses have them.
Another trellis on this house . . .The oldest house in Sconset is called “Auld Lang Syne” and was built around 1670.
Could you ever tire of this? No, me either.
We went to dinner one night here at the Chanticleer Restaurant, just up the street from those little clam shell streets. One of the prettiest places I’ve ever seen. If you ever get the chance to come here, I think you would love this.
There are several eating areas to choose from . . . this is one of the outdoor porches . . .
There is another outdoor porch on the left of this photo . . . the two porches go down both sides of this lawn . . . that’s the main dining room inside those windows, for those chilly nights when you need a crackling fire to have dinner by.
But not this perfectly mild evening . . . By the time we left, these tables were full of people eating outside under the stars.
We chose to have a table on the indoor porch overlooking the back garden . . . this is the table across from us. Do you see the roses? It was really just this beautiful . . . There’s also a bar where you can eat where they had live Jazz. But in this room (our room), they played French music.
We had Pink wine . . .
Our toast . . . Here’s to beauty! And Mas MUSICA . . .
The fresh island-grown tomatoes were so sweet, they tasted just like they look . . .
And what vacation would be complete without these?
The Chanticleer is almost covered in ivy . . .
And then, off we go the next morning to Nantucket Town . . . this is the main town on the island . . .
The crosswalks are brick, the original roads are still cobblestone . . . the island is very much protected by the Nantucket Conservation Foundation. There are many rules about what can and cannot happen here. I’m not a person who loves rules, but I’m glad they have them on Nantucket.
Because it never changes. The cobblestone streets were built one stone at a time many years ago, not many towns in America have these! They aren’t that good for stiletto heels (if you thought you might be wearing them, I would suggest you think again . . . ) and they are bumpy to drive on, but they will be staying despite all of that.
There are lots of interesting one-of-a-kind shops too, it’s truly a browser’s paradise.
This three story brick building was built in 1772 complete with widow’s walk to get a good view of the ships coming back from sea . . . you can read about Historic Nantucket here ~ Nantucket was the home port for the ships that took part in the Boston Tea Party. How about that!
Downtown Nantucket just after alighting from the way-back machine. Of course I love color, but there is something about these wonderful old black and white photos.
All roads lead to Nantucket!
For lunch this day we went over to Galley Beach Restaurant . . . Could it get any better? No, really, this is just about as good as it gets. That is our table right there on the left, the first one. If I lived here I would bring my book and come here every day!
If we looked out to the right, we saw the beach, if we looked to the left, we saw this . . .
If we looked down, we saw the menu . . .
And then this . . . under all these crisp-cooked island vegetables is fresh melt-in-your-mouth codfish surrounded in Lemon Beurre Blanc Sauce . . .
Then back to the house for a nap on the porch amongst a yard full of bunnies who seem to trust us (except the look in that eye says, “Yes, I trust you, but don’t try anything.”)
This is where we were staying . . . I think the original part of the house was built in around 1860.
This is just part of the reason I think that . . . the house is filled with photos like this . . .
You can just see the widow’s walk behind the white chimney in the photo of the house above, and here, we’ve climbed the attic stairs and gone through a door in the roof for a bird’s eye view of the bay. . .
More view from the top . . .
And I took a few more photos inside . . . this is one of the cozy guest bedrooms . . . Every room has books in it, good ones too.
It’s a house of memories . . .
Another peaceful bedroom . . .
This recipe was on the wall in the kitchen, Cousin Hattie’s Apple Pie, a family recipe I’m sure . . . It must be delicious! It has cinnamon, apples, nutmeg and bourbon in it! Worth framing!
A house with kitty feet on the stairs.
A house of history.
Old photos, paintings, quilts, pillows, books and rugs, nothing matching, everything old and homey and real . . .
A whole wall of family height measurements, initials and dates . . . you see 1928, 1957, 1971, and so many more . . . amazing . . .
And lots of paintings of the house . . .
I worked on my book in the early mornings, with this as my view as the sun rose. Oh Girls, I’m loving writing this book.
Time marches on, our last sunset, so quiet and peaceful, and time to go home . . .
Here we are, in Nantucket Harbor, on board the Hyline, getting ready to depart . . .
This is what it looks like on the inside of our boat . . . quite comfy, there’s a snack bar, and we have a table.
Here’s the view out the front of the boat . . .
And, we’re off! The view from my window . . .
Leaving the harbor, past the lighthouse, and this big boat just coming in . . .lucky them!
I took this from the window, that’s the same big boat curling around the harbor . . .
And off we go . . . Our little getaway is over. But we learned one thing for sure . . . we should not wait ten years before we do this again! Deep breath, ocean air, sparkling day, cry of seagulls overhead, good memories . . . so lucky. ♥ Now back to reality . . .
Love you♥ Hope you liked that! See you soon! XOXO
Susan,
Such ramblings make me weak in the knees. Oh how I love summer days by the sea at Cape Cod and the islands. Honestly, it is Heaven on earth and how blessed I am to be able to be there often. When it comes to that beautiful corner of the world, I always feel like “there’s everywhere else and then there’s you”! Thanks for sharing your days….I can smell that air, feel the salt spray, hear the seagulls, and feel that sunshine on my face! Joy!
“I get there in person before too long. Thank you so much for the “armchair” visit. Can’t wait for your next R&R jont!!! Cheryl
I guess I erased part of my comments. What I had written was your visit to Nantucket, with the amazing photos and enchanting comments was second only to actually being there. I hope to get there in person before too long. Thank you so much for sharing your trip and for the “armchair” visit. I can’t wait for you and Joe to go on another R&R jont!!! Cheryl
Susan, how blessed you are to live where all these delights are a simple ferry ride away! I enjoyed this so much!
By the way, the music links you include are always wonderful, too. Thanks!
Oh Susan, I feel like I just took a mini vacation!! Every single place is perfect. You couldn’t have found a better place to get away. Just beautiful. I loved that you ended with a quote from Gladys Taber, because guess what I received in the mail yesterday? The Best of Stillmeadow! So very excited!!! Nantucket and Stillmeadow all in one weekend. And both, because of you. Thank you.
So great Lisa! I know you’ll love it!
welcome home Susan, hello girlfriends. I just love all the lovely pictures of the homes and the flowers, breathtaking. I love that sneaky little bunny, he had his eye on you, and he looked so cute. my cats would have adored playing with him. just popped in to welcome you home, have to go check on the barnyard brats, the heat her has been rough for them so keeping them cool and comfy is full time work. i’ll come back later. bye and hugs… 🙂
Just beautiful, and so charming! I do love New England, and hope to get back there again some day. I’d be super jealous, except we’re leaving for Italy in 2 weeks to celebrate our 40th anniversary, which is actually in November. We’ll be renting a car and traveling with another couple who are good friends, and spending several nights on the island of Ischia, and then renting a condo in Tuscany for a week before ending with a few nights in Rome. Last year for our 39th, we ordered pizza and watched TV, so I said I thought we should up it a bit this year. I think we’ve succeeded :o)
That sounds fantastic Peggy!
What a gorgeous post, Susan! I am catching up now, as hubby took my MacBook to get fixed, while I was away last week:) I have been missing all the news, here. Too crazy trying to blog hop on a smart phone:/
After reading this post, I now realize it wouldn’t be enough to pop over to Nantucket for just a day…several days would have to be set aside! Those clam shell paths and roads are just the most charming…and my goodness…the Ivy covered restaurant! It reminds me of the little book Ivy Cottage Violet Pickles…where they snip away the ivy to see out the windows:)
I know you have come back refreshed, renewed, and rejuvenated…
Thank you for sharing such fantastic photos of all the things we love!
Hugs and love and blessings,
Christie Ray
Home at last, in Franklin, TN
Yes, renewed, refreshed and inspired! Welcome home to you too Christie!
Susan–thank you for the vacation from Indiana’s heat and humidity. Pam
All good things must come to an end. I’ve never quite figured out why that has to be, though.:-) Now I have added one more spot to my “must visit” list!
I’ve been following Belinda’s tweets about being on MV for Illumination Night and other enjoyable events! Now I know I must make a return visit in August!
Jack and Girl Kitty are beside themselves, I’m sure, at your return!
It is time for me to take that Autumn book down and brush up some of those seasonal recipes! Of course, our temps here this past week have been into the mid-nineties, so the thermometer has not been exactly cooperating.
I imagine summer visitors have begun to leave MV, and after Labor Day (just next week-end!) things will slow a bit. Enjoy the remainder of the summer!
xo Nellie
I do like this. What a wonderful journey and such georgeous pictures. Thank you again Susan for the wonderful food for the soul!!
Hello, everyone…
Summer is winding down here… some of the schools are back in session, and most others start this week. I am returning to the classroom this week, too, for the first time in a long while, as an assistant in a kindergarten special education classroom in my old district. Just felt the need to do so, and there was an opening, and so, here I go once again! A little nervous, but excited, too. Please send good thoughts that I do well and that the children and staff are pleased that I am there.
Nantucket has ALWAYS been on my bucket list, and now that I’ve seen your visit there, Susan, I think it has jumped to the top of the list. Thank you so much for sharing it. One of my long time favorite fiction authors lives on the island, and now you have been there, too! Now I really have to manage to get there sooner rather than later. Loved every picture and every scrap in info and details that you shared!
I bet Jack and Girl Kitty were glad to have you home, but you are right about giving you and Joe a bit of wee escape… and such a wondrous place to go. I am so looking forward to your new book… the bits and pieces that you’ve let us know about sound fabulous! Take care, and enjoy your time with Jack and the rubber bands tomorrow… I am sure he will be keeping you busy. 🙂
All the best to you and all the best to all of us here who really, truly, love your posts.
Same to you Susan!
hi susan! Nantucket looks positively delightful…enchanting really! Thank you for the lovely tour about the Island…we are kicking ourselves that we didn’t zip over there for a peek when we visited MV…next time for sure… I love that feeling of renewed spirit and energy after a getaway like that…..I have been in the real world for a while now since school has started and it’s back to work for me…. just pulled out my Autumn book and started leafing through it…it’s amazing susan..I have read it a zillion times, but it always seems like it is new to me…..I love the fall most of all I think..I spied the first caramel covered apples at the grocery store the other day and even as I am writing this, I can hear the sounds of the football game my husband is watching from the other room… it’s just around the corner.. ~ so happy that you are enjoying your time writing your next book…. “Love your work..and you’ll never work a day in your life”….. Confucius. He said something close to this I think..can’t remember exactly..but it is certainly the truth…have a wonderful week susan! love, cindy
You too Cindy! xoxo
Susan…thanks for taking us on vacation with you. The highlight of the blog today was the Musica! I was married to my hubby 52 years ago on August 12th. “With A Song In My Heart” was one of the songs I picked for our wedding! I had seen the movie with Susan Hayward (a favorite) playing the part of Jane Froman and featuring the song when I was just a young girl. I had never forgotten it as I loved it so much. Thank you, thank you for such a sweet reminder of life’s beauty.
That’s wonderful Deanna!
Almost too beauteous. I will visit in my dreams.
made me homesick but a big thank you!
Oh, Susan, I LOVED getting to go on your wonderful trip to Nantucket with you. So so beautiful and peaceful and lovely. Thank you very, very much. I needed just such a respite and you are so kind to share your getaway with us. Love, Eileen
Thank you for sharing all those wonderful photos!!! I kept thinking of how long it must have taken you to write that wonderful blog post and I want you to know how much we appreciate it! I’ve been watching “Wings” – one of my favorite shows on Netflix – and wanting to visit Nantucket so this was extra fun for me to see!
My pleasure Tracie!
Susan –
My life and lifestyle are circumscribed by forces beyond my control. I thank you for enabling me to travel with you. Towns, islands, whole countries I may never see in person are brought to me via magickal technology. Amazing.
Really looking froward to that new book.
Marcia in Sewel, NJ
I’m hurrying!
oh my, thank you, thank you for the ride. it was wonderful. tears are dropping from my eyes. what an awesome way to start the day. love you, Susan. thanks for all.
You are so welcome!
Thank you so much for sharing your get-a-way with us. I appreciate the time you take to share all the wonderful pictures. You just have to know my screen saver gets a work out with beautiful pictures!!
Just a little something to brighten your day!
Oh, Susan, how homesick you have made me! I am not from Nantucket but had the most perfect vacation of my life there 4 years ago after a grueling battle with cancer. The fresh sea air, the roses, the cottages,the beauty and incredible charm of the island refreshed and “rebooted” me. It filled me up with joy and happiness and I relive that joy and happiness every time I see this precious place. We are saving for a return trip for as you said, ‘We must not wait 10 years to do this again.”
Blessings and thank you for all you do to bring light and joy to this world~
Carol
That was lovely, Carol, Thank You!
Just loved all of the pictures from Nantucket ~ you captured the charm and sense of history and home beautifully. It really would be wonderful to sit on that restaurant porch with a good book, sipping tea and looking up from time to time to gaze at the sea! And those gardens are so appealing ~ even tiny areas seemed to have flowers everywhere!
Thank you for the pictorial visit to Nantucket. Would you tell me what the hanging basket is for in the room with the wall desk? Thanks! Jean
We don’t know . . . if you read over the comments, you’ll see you aren’t the only one with an inquiring mind! 🙂
Um…speechless. :0)
I LOVE your photos of Nantucket — just magical! Do you have an instagram account? If not – you’ve got to get one!!
Martha from CT
Why? How do they work?
Do you have an I-phone? It is a very popular photo sharing app — you would fit right in!!
Martha from CT
I do, but I only use it when we’re traveling . . . I will check it out!
Definitely check it out — I’ll be the first to follow you! And maybe you can follow me too! ;o
Susan, how lovely, thank you for sharing.
Thank you Susan for taking us to Nantucket. I’ve never been there. I LOVED all the pics and I’ve added it to my bucket list. Your sentiments are so wonderful; makes us feel that we were there too. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences with all of us. You will never know how much it means to me, really…………You are the best!
Looking forward to getting the “new” Autumn Book. Can’t wait to try some new recipes. I’ve made your crab cake recipe from The Summer Book quite often this summer, it’s DELISH!! Take care!
Any minute now!
Oh how lucky we are to read your blog! I love all the pictures and story telling, but I also love how I get a history lesson with your posts! Keep traveling because I’m living thru you!
Hopefully we’ll be going to Scotland next year, lots of exciting history there!
My husband and I just came back from visiting his sister and her family in Scotland. You will love it! We usually go in February, but this year we were able to go twice…so exciting. It was the first time I’ve been there in August…beautiful any time of the year. Since you and Joe love walking you must go on the Coastal Trail – visitscotland.com/en-us/see-do/itineraries/nature-geography/coastal-trail. We were in St. Andrews so we walked the Fife Coastal Trail. You walk along the shore, through golf courses, farms, old woodlands and of course past pastures of sheep and cows….lovely, as they say there.
Enjoy the rest of your summer!
I saved the website in my SCOTLAND file . . . that sounds just perfect for us. Thank you maureen MACKENZIE! xoxo
Oh my, Scotland…I’ll be on my knees praying for you and me. And God answers prayer. A dream come true for both of us. I could go to Scotland, and it is on my bucket list, but going with you and the girlfriends is a whole different matter. Mind boggling for me really. “My heart’s in the highlands……
That’s so nice to hear Rhonda.
I was hoping you might write a series of travel books about all the wonderful places you go. That way I can go with a friend (you of course;)) who likes the same things I do!
I’d love to do that too. The problem is the lack of hours in the day and the limitations of only two hands, if I could find a way around those things I do it in a minute.
You can never have too much charm! Love traveling with you! That cod dish looked most wonderful! I too wondered about that basket. Mysterioso.
Absolute pure charm, both Nantucket and you, dear Susan. Thank you for once again sharing the beauty, adventure and peace of your travels. Really, I have never seen a place more lovely and magical. Speaking of magic, I just went to see the new Woody Allen movie, Magic in the Moonlight. As my girlfriend said, it was like having a glass of sparkling champagne and a bonbon. Cheers!
Perfect!
Oh Susan, it must have felt like a bit of Heaven being there. The weather looked gorgeous, the ovionce of the island in itself had to be so memorable! Thank you for sharing all of this with us! It is just breathtaking…. The homes, the flowers, the food..every little thing must have felt so unreal! But..yes, it is always nice to have experienced it, but home is the sweetest!
As always. xoxo
Beautiful Nantucket photos. . . I made the gate with the little trellis and pathway in Sconset as the background on my computer at work. Lucky me, I have 2 screens, I can work on one and stare at the ocean on the other one at the same time.
Thank you!
You are welcome Patty!
I nearly missed this post, and I think from the number of comments, there are still a bunch of girlfriends yet to discover it. Oh, the delights when they do! Nantucket is so very, very different from my central Kentucky, it’s like a different country…..and UTTERLY delightful. Thank you for a double dose of escape.
You have spoken several times about how much you are loving working on the new book. Can you give us a little preview, since it’s supposed to be different than previous books? We want to get excited too!
It’s really just typed right now, when I start painting it I’ll be able to give you a preview . . . right now there’s not too much to see but a stack of papers . . . it won’t be long now!
Loved the blog, the pics that really touched me were the 4 HOME pics, the French Fries & the kitty foot prints ! So glad they didn’t remove them ! Love a touch of whimsy , it ‘s so cozy !
Just lovely. I enjoyed every photo. It was as if I were there. Loved the Dorothy Parker quote. After such a long cold winter here in the Midwest it seems like summer has been much too short. The season of pumpkin everything is just around the corner.
What a wonderful place Nantucket is!! Thanks so much for sharing it with us! This has to go on my bucket list, for sure!! As a professional photographer, my husband would love all the historic and lovely places to take photographs. I have a question about one of yours. In the photo of one of the guest bedrooms is a “nantucket ” basket having from a string in the middle of the room! Is there a significance to the basket hanging there like that? I’d love to know! Thanks! Best wishes for a wonderful end of the summer holiday weekend! <3 and (((hugs)))
If you have a moment to glance through the comments, you’ll see that we’re all wondering about that basket — and guessing why it was there. We don’t really know either!
The Nantucket pictures are so wonderful and it always makes me wonder…who are the people who get to live in those sweet little cottages? I am sure they are summer places, mostly but I have found that on the beautiful NY lake we spend some summer time …the most fabulous summer homes are all people-less and shades drawn and i could scream….let me have one! The tinier, the better as those Nantucket cottages. Love the interior pictures of the home where you stayed…reminds me of the original “camps” as they are called in the Adirondacks where we just were a week ago. It is truly heaven on earth. I was in Nantucket once some years ago when our girls spent a week on MV. We had a lovely tour of Nantucket and those roses on the roofs! You did a lovely job of giving the flavor of the island. Back in Texas now and temps in the 100’s…but home is good. Thank you for the capsule of summertime.
Hi Susan, thank you for another beautiful post! Nantucket is beautiful and I can’t wait to visit some day. You said you were returning to reality but Susan, your reality is living on Martha’s Vineyard, how wonderful is that! I would take that reality any time. Thank you for letting me dream!
There is no complaining going on here! What is amazing is the trip from here to Nantucket, it couldn’t be any prettier to go across the sea that way.
What a treat! Thanks for taking us along on yet another adventure. I’ve always wondered what it was like there….. far from my little corner of Idaho.
Susan—Thank you so much for this wonderful blog post. Sitting here in the 100 degree weather in St. Louis, your pictures of the sand and water were very refreshing. I dream of a vacation to Nantucket and Martha’s Vinyard some day. I can not wait for your book to be published. When will it be available?
I’m still trying to figure that out! I hope next summer.
Tell me you had the Nantucket Oysters at the Chanticleer? My Nana (she was French) used to make Oyster “Stew”, fresh oysters and potatoes in a thin milky broth. Just before serving she would melt a dollop of fresh butter on the top. Oooh la la!
Someday I will go to Nantucket but in the meantime thank you so much for sharing your adventure with us through pictures, words and Musica. Happy to hear you and Joe had such a great trip. 🙂
Well it was a difficult choice! But we have wonderful oysters here on the island, so I went with an amazing beet salad. Thank you Mary!
One of my favorite veggies…..like candy!
Oh Susan!
How did you know that way deep inside we were all secretly hoping there would be a Nantucket Part 2! I definitely hope there will be a trip in my future to this wonderful island. You captured the charm with your wonderful pictures 🙂
While visiting with Mom on Sunday I found a painting my grandmother purchased LONG ago titled “A Home on Nantucket” It is simply charming. I am going to clean up the glass, take a picture of it and post it on Twitter for you to see. You might just say, Yes! I walked by that place! LOL!
Isn’t it amazing how a getaway can refresh the soul! How wonderful you got a chance to go. I remember how excited and relaxed both Joe and I were after our 3 day trip to Martha’s Vineyard. It was just glorious.
Your new book sounds like a constant companion. By the time it gets into our hands it will be all broken it and well worn… by You! We are all eagerly awaiting its release! A first new publication by Spring Street Publishing!!! E-X-C-I-T-I-N-G!
Much Love xoxo
Georgie from NJ
I will look for the painting Georgie! xoxo
So did you get yourself a Nantucket Basket?? I love the pink wine and the soup looked delicious. What were the yellow balls in the soup? What a great summer trip!
I didn’t!
So what were the balls in the soup?
They were little soft potatoes.
As vaguely referenced on the sign — the Chanticleer was a mighty , fierce and greatly feared Rooster …. To found in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales …
Love the CE (Continuing Education) you provide us with Jack! Susan gives us the dreamy inspiration and then you add the Brain Boosters. What a team 🙂 Gracias señor!
Thanks Jack. There was a restaurant named Chanticleer in Orange County, CA many years ago. My friend and her sister hosted a 40th wedding anniversary dinner for their parents there and I wondered about the name. Sounds too pretty for a mighty, fierce rooster!
I remember it well … On MacArthur Blvd. across from the airport … now closed. Chanticleer ~ A rooster in fairy tales 🙂
LOVE…LOVE…LOVE! Thank you for sharing your lovely get-a-way with us!
Oh Susan!! I need to live in Nantucket!! I live on Puget Sound but love this eastern place!! So wonderful to see all the rooms and the bunnies. Glad you had a wonderful getaway. Good for the soul to travel just a bit!!…
OK YOU DID IT AGAIN! Took me on a wonderful journey into (my) unknown! Outstanding & delightful! A very magical place indeed! The meals not only looked yummy but the presentation just made it look even better. Why can’t we prepare a meal with such fabulous presentation at home???? Duh!! Big news on my front: I PURCHASED MY FIRST RV!! Yep – that would be me! It is a 2015 Winnebago Travato 259G (sounds very Italian doesn’t it?) Just right for me and me alone – no 20 some odd family members can come – just me! My response to that is: It is about time!! Lots to learn! Everyday I make a new discovery. But first – I will be off to Moulton’s Ranch Cabins in Grand Tetons National Park for 7 days!! I haven’t been back to the Tetons since 1995 and, boy, am I looking forward to simply sitting and enjoying the view!! I will report back after the trip. Going to the cabin in Newport, WA after that. No – I am NOT taking the RV yet – too much stuff to learn and get myself feeling comfortable about. Another trip will come soon. Happy Trails, my dear. Keep up the good work on the book – EXCITED!!
Hugs galore!!! XXXXOOOO Pat
Well you brave and adventurous girl! You get to be Inspiration of the Week! 🙂 Excited for you! Let us know how it goes!
Yes you are Inspiration for the Week! You go Pat! So happy for you.
Chris
Yay Pat! That sounds so terrific! Keep us posted on your adventures. Now that I’m thinking about it…you could travel the country and visit with SB girlfriends coast to coast! ❤
~Have fun on your Glamping Adventure! ~ I yearn for an older Airsteam…..and a Route 66 trip!!!~
AWESOME pictures in these two letters – thank you, thank you, thank you Susan and Joe for the beautiful get-a-way! I knew very little about Nantucket – it’s now a top choice on my bucket list!
Loverly! <3
I’ve always wanted to go to Nantucket, Susan. And now I know I must!
🙂 Sara 🙂
Hi Susan — I think Lucy and I need to sneak into your travel trunk FOR SURE if you are going to tease us with those French Fries. (It’s kind of an unspoken rule that when we go to a new restaurant on ANY road trip, we try their fries!) Those looked mighty fine.
Our library branch had a fun summer set up of “beach reading” books and one by Nancy Thayer was NANTUCKET SISTERS. I absolutely loved it and had just finished it last week, reading about Sconset, clam shell roads, the island hospital, and more. Well, what a delight it was to see your posting all about Nantucket — I could put pictures to the words. I’ve never been to New England, so THANK YOU SO MUCH for sharing. I also had to share your Gladys quote with my daughters and bestest friends — there’s nothing better than having time and taking time. Too bad it takes some so very long to figure that out.
We’re having a heat wave here in northern Indiana, but along the roadsides we can certainly see signs that the season is waning. The chicory and Queen Anne’s lace are abundant, and we’ve had unbelievable autumn-looking skies. Am I getting antsy? You bet!; I just love getting ready for winter. And Lucy and I are suddenly having more playtime, as our husbands are teachers and are back at it. Enjoy your Labor Day weekend now! Ethel
PS I like the idea of a baby doll in that basket, too.
Hi Susan
Nantucket – my paradise. After visiting Nantucket a few times, I decided I HAD to HAVE roses growing up and over the roof of my house. I’m working on it. It’s happening slowly but surely. Patience, patience, Carol.
Tra la
Hi Susan!
Beautiful, thanks! Hey, I’m thinking that if the residence you were staying at, had theme rooms, the basket hanging from the centre of the room, is the room for the “basket cases.” And, certainly the room with the owl photo over the bed, was the room for the visitors who “didn’t give a hoot!”
What d’ya think? 🙂
Love,
Erica
Like it!
Thank you Susan. I needed that.
XO
Arlinda
♥♥♥ Hello Sweet Sue….I Love Everything About Nantucket! Your Photos are Gorgeous! I Love The Stairs with The Kitty Feet! OMG! 🙂 & The Beaches! & The Views & The Pink Wine Oh so Scrumptious! Cheerio! 🙂 ok Now Guess What? Today in The Mail I got My Yankee Magazine… The September/October Issue Yay! <3 🙂 so of Course it is Filled with All Things Autumn (Yankee~Autumn) 🙂 I'll Be Savoring Every Turn of The Page….Well on Page 81 there it Was The Most Adorable Add for Your "Autumn" Book The Tenth Anniversary Edition with Your Website too! What a Sweet Surprise! 🙂 <3 🙂 & Then in This Issue…pages 96~103 A Wonderful Story with photos of Tasha Tudor Amazing! Anyway Sweet Sue…. Once Again…. Thank You for Bringing Us Along On Your Magical Marvelous Summer Trip to Nantucket…..I'm Still Wiggling My Toes In The Sand…Me Face to The Sunshine… Breathing in That Glorious Salty~Air…Ahhhhhhhh! Hugzzz & Love a Bit of Salty Sandy Summer Pixie~Dust! xoxo Poof! ♥♥♥ 🙂
Hi Angie
I got my Issue just the other day. And I fell deeply into the article about the apples. How wonderful that someone can spend their life doing life’s passion!
I savor my Yankee Magazine every night before going to bed!
Chris
I got mine too, and I’m right with you. It’s stuffed with inspiration!
B E A U T I F U L post Susan! Thank you for all the extra pictures of your mini getaway. Loved every picture and word. So much eye candy! Glad you and Joe are home safe and sound. I’m certain Girl Kitty and Jack feel the same. With lots of love. ♥
Just too beautiful for words!
Hi Susan,
What a beautiful post! Along with Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket is one of my favorite islands!
I loved your photos, thank you for taking the time to take photos! I felt like was there with!
Enjoyed it all!
Thank you,
Lucy in California
~ Good Morning~ we are home from our little mini~ vacation ~ always great to get~away but there is no place like home!~
These photos of Nantucket are beautiful! I loved having a little virtual visit this morning to a place I have wanted to see for decades. Thank-you for so many lovely details of the island.
I can’t wait to have your new book! All the little hints of this and that have me very curious and excited!!
Beautiful, Susan, just beautiful. I feel as if I could step right into each photograph you’ve posted!
Perfectly perfect!!!
.
Thank you for taking us along!
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With your amazing photography, we were almost there. 🙂
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Gentle hug,
Tessa~
And I love the idea of adding Bourbon, to Apple Pie!!!!
.
My husband suggested, adding Bourbon to Apple Sauce. ‘Cause he really wouldn’t want me to mess-with is beloved Apple Pie. ,-)
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Gentle hugs,
Tessa~
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Interesting to compare — the three story brick building photo ….almost no one wears a hat ,
or a coat . In the following photo — everyone had on a coat and hat , even tho the shadows
Show the sun was shining !
Also , that Widows Walk seems to be sitting above any point of access through the roof ….?
No leaves on the trees, it’s probably spring, and spring is cold here! Maybe there’s a stairway on the other side of that brick building, but in the houses the only ones I’m familiar with (which isn’t in the hundreds :-))go through the roof.
Also PS — if I needed some quick money I would hang out my sign …..as window washer.
Hahaha!
Looks lovely. I would love to visit, but from Belgium it’s a bit far. Maybe I should visit England through your eyes first: I have your book on my wish list for Christmas!
I had to smile when I read that you dined at the Chanticleer. My husband and I stayed at the Canteclaer camping last weekend. It’s an old French/Flemish name, for the rooster in the folk tale about Reynaert (renard) the fox. I wonder how this Flemish cockerel found his way to Nantucket?
I think through England!
Thanks so much for that wonderful post you always make us feel like we are there with you. I can’t wait for your new book. Take care and have a terrific week Judy
Fabulous! I’m dumb-struck. Nantucket…must. go. Spectacular!
Dear Susan, I feel somebody needs to inform the Chamber of Commerce of your fine promoting skills! And, further, you need to be rewarded (by them) with a Nantucket basket….as lovely as yourself.
Oh ho, that’s so sweet!
Sigh, so jealous, it looks like you had a marvelous trip and I may have to take a trip back East soon. Thank you for sharing your trip/pictures/adventures.
Susan, (reposting this as my prior one seems to be hung up…again! LOL!)
Such ramblings make me weak in the knees. Oh how I love summer days by the sea at Cape Cod and the islands. Honestly, it is Heaven on earth and how blessed I am to be able to be there often. When it comes to that beautiful corner of the world, I always feel like “there’s everywhere else and then there’s you”! Thanks for sharing your days….I can smell that air, feel the salt spray, hear the seagulls, and feel that sunshine on my face! Joy!
Just surfing today and thought of all the times you talk about creativity. Here’s the site
cnn.com/2014/03/25/health/brain-crafting-benefits/
Has to do with knitting but you know. It can be other methods of creativity. Thanks for the tours. I’ve been trying to get my DH to go to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket for years- really Years! I ordered visitor’s brochures from the Chamber and read them till they fell apart. Still dreaming…sigh. Wonder how it is there in winters; our winter’s are nasty – too cold and too much snow (early November till mid-April we had snow cover on the ground. I lost two large maple trees due to long cold periods of weeks). I love you took so many pictures to share. The water looks warm and the town’s house are oozing charm.
With a name like Sunny, I would think you have too much snow! Yes, we do have warm water here, the Gulf Stream encircles the island. But it also snows in the winter, and last year was very cold, our hydrangeas suffered. I hope you come someday. Maybe it’s time to come with a girlfriend! You can bring your DH some fudge, we have wonderful fudge here on the island.
So much beauty! Thank you so much for showing us your world. I know that MV and Nantucket are a definite bucket list item for me. I don’t know how you get work done by the sea. I always take books or magazines with me but wind up just staring at the water and the view all the time. I just can’t concentrate on anything else! Also, I always love when people leave their blinds/windows open so I can get sneak peeks on walks or drives! Lol. Thanks again and so happy you got a chance to recharge!
I agree, that beauty outside does kind of pull a person away from her work — and it’s wrong not to allow it sometimes!
Awwwwwww. The number one rule in our first grade classroom was to Be Kind. You, my dear are the personification. Your post warmed my heart and reminded me to be grateful. Lani
Thank you Lani!
Susan,
Have often wondered what Nantucket is like. Wow! What a beautiful place! What a great place for a little Summer getaway. Lucky you! Beautiful photos – thanks so much. What a great trip. Have to say, Fall will be here soon. We drove up north last weekend and noticed a few of the trees already starting to turn color. Fall – my favorite time of year! Have a great week!
Jan
Hi Susan, What does it mean when a comment is still in moderation after 3 days? Did it end up in the Spam folder? Or will you eventually get to it? Should I just try commenting again? It was my little story about the basket in the middle of the room that JoAnne started.
I’ve always wanted to go to Nantucket, but when Martha’s Vineyard came into my life via your Blog, we went there instead. I guess I’ll have to put Nantucket back on my list now. Is there a particular month the best time to go considering crowds (which we don’t like), shops still open, and weather?
I’m hosting a get together tomorrow for Tasha Tudor’s birthday as are several other people across the country under the auspices of the Tasha Tudor Museum. I think we should start something like that for your birthday!
It could be one of two things, either I haven’t gotten there yet, or the gremlin is at work. Let me go look … I would say for Nantucket the best time is May or in the fall. Just like here. They have rather a big Christmas event out there too. Tasha Tudor’s birthday, how sweet!
Years ago I traveled to Nantucket in April and it was still quite cold on the Island. Definitely needed heavy sweaters and coats. I remember clinging to my friend as we took a scooter ride outside the town and tears flowing from my eyes the entire time from the cold, moving air circulating around us. So much still felt like it was in hibernation! I’ve been wanting to thank you, Susan, for showing me another side of Nantucket that I certainly did not experience on that trip. We had a wonderful time but I certainly would prefer being surrounded by the beautiful flowers flowing everywhere that you just experienced. Truly magical! I will have to return!
Yes, April is still cold in this neck of the woods . . . and the grass hasn’t quite turned green, and of course there are no leaves on the trees or the roses. What you do get by coming then, is solitude. Not so many tourists competing for space on the sidewalks.
So true! The only people we met besides the owner of the boarding house where we stayed were the crew of the ferry who were staying at the same house! Such nice, rugged guys! And of course owners and patrons of any restaurants where we ate and if I remember correctly there weren’t too many of those open at the time. Yes, it’s an entirely different world in April vs August!
Love having both!
Thank you for sharing this dreamy, relaxing vacation with your Girlfriends! We’ve been back in school for 5 weeks now, and my students and I just created a bulletin board about bringing back summer…I got to put up my prized pics from Danbury, CT…and then I saw your post…. and I really started dreaming about having a summer back that we could still enjoy summertime through August! Oh how I wish we could go back to the days of laid back, lazy dog days of summer being survived on a porch with big glasses of lemonade… or better yet… enjoying a family vacation in August like the families you saw on the beach as you were leaving on your boat for Nantucket. But… now it’s back to reality… papers to grade, and plans to make… thanks for sharing this beautiful dream!
You can always make that for yourself!
Oh my, thank you for taking us to Nantucket. It’s my kind of place, maybe I’ll put it on my Bucket List.
You’ve been to NYC….I am taking the five girls in my family there for a longer weekend to celebrate my 70th birthday (yikes that number stings!) in October. Any suggestions where to dine, what favorite places you’ve seen in midtown?
New York is so wonderful and there are so many terrific places to go. It’s best done with tickets to things, like a play or concert if possible, a museum or two, a walk in Central Park, Shopping, and Food. I think by just posting this, you will get many suggestions from Girlfriends, but also, Google and look for stars next to things that interest you and your family. There’s just so much! From the Empire State Building to the Statue of Liberty and everything in between. The oldest restaurant in New York, tearooms, The Met, the Tenement Museum, The Frick. Choose a few, and leave room for serendipity, but definitely leave room for the Park.
The pragmatic part of me wonders whether or not those people get roof damage from the rose trellises. The whimsical part tells me it doesn’t matter because it is beautiful.
I don’t think roses have those suckers that ruin buildings. They lose all their leaves every year too.
Ok, I just read A Fine Romance. Loved it!! And have started flowing your blog via email. This post of yours about Nantucket is the best. Have you ever thought of being a travel agent of sorts?! I would get you to plan my England trip in 2015 and a trip to Nantucket. I must save my money. Seriously, Rick Steves has nothing on you!!
Are you at liberty to tell the name of the house you stayed in on Nantucket?
Leigh Witherspoon
Memphis, Tennessee
I’m so happy you liked it Leigh! Welcome to the Blog. We took the Blog with us (virtually) when we went to England (you can see some of my little travel videos in the Appendix at the top of the Blog under I LOVE ENGLAND). We’ll be going to Scotland next spring and taking everyone along (again, it’s just virtual), that’s our plan if our timing for everything else works out. We’ll have fun! I hope you can join us. Our friend is the only person who the family rents that house to, the rest of the time they use it themselves ~ lucky friend!
Hooray! Just got an email from your store telling me my new Autumn book is on it’s way! I have the old one, and you signed it for me at the FOGT reunion (love your Birds of a Feather in the new newsletter, by the way) but I HAD to have one with a ribbon, and a sticker, and a new publishing logo, too 🙂 Hugs
We’re all excited at the Studio that they’re going out! Thank you Shannon!
Hello Susan!!! You are so sweet in sharing these beautiful photos of your relaxing trip to Nantucket!!! Thank You so much!!! Stunning therapy for the end-of-the-summer soul !!! (Can barely catch my breath!)
RED ALERT! RED ALERT! RED ALERT! Wanted to send out an alert for all you Tasha Tudor fans (and, there’s aplenty). The Autumn issue of the Yankee magazine has a wonderful article on Tasha Tudor. You won’t want to miss it. (Sandy from Chihuahua Flats)
Thank you for sharing your beautiful getaway with us. How lovely to get lost in your pictures. Could you please tell me what the basket hanging from the ceiling is for in the photo that has the following posting under it: “And I took a few more photos inside . . . this is one of the cozy guest bedrooms . . . Every room has books in it, good ones too”? I’d love to know. I always learn so much from you. Thank you, Susan.
Well, this time, I’m afraid, there won’t be much learning! There’s been lots of discussion and suggestion here in the comments about what that basket might be used for, but I’m afraid it’s still a mystery!
I loved this last post….Nantucket and your travels there…Everything about it, is CHARMING!..My cousins husband has a ton of family history there and there is still a family home on the island….An old Great Aunt lives there now. They will be visiting Nantucket in about 3 weeks for a month in New England..and will also be on MV for a night or two…I so wish I was in their pocket for this trip…My little island in Puget Sound (Bainbridge Island) is becoming more and more touristy….I have lived here most all of my life and live in the house my Granfather built in 1903. Our island is a 35 minute ferry ride directly from Seattle and is now being compared to MV….But it is a grand place to live….I do so love it here….like you love MV. we are lucky to have our “Islands” to call home….we are blessed.
I am happy for you to be back home….fall is coming and I could feel it in the air today (the turning day, today is) AUTUMN..my favorite time of the year… Again, loved your Nantucket posting….want to visit again and so happy you are HOME ….Harvest time is just ahead! best to Joe and the kitties, too!
Do you have an off season where it gets quiet? That’s the saving grace for these islands . . . the tourist are wonderful, but it’s also nice when they go home. Happy almost September!
Yes! We do….school starts and things begin to go inward..The ferry lines begin to decrease in length..with all the tourist cars and passengers…(and the fares go down in october!)….The downtown area (Winslow) is just a short walk from the ferry landing and the local businesses savor the summer trade ….but seems like the sidewalks roll up when the rains and winds arrive…and when it starts getting dark earlier….It is exciting to have a busy island in the summer..but I truly welcome the fall when things come homeward and inside….I love harvest time and many of us now have little gardens and are harvesting all the things we have grown this summer…I have one friend who LOVES growing a huge vegetable garden ( 60 ft x 60 ft) and they are harvesting right now…quarts and quarts of produce she cans and freezes….and I am so fortunate to be the recipient of a little of this and that…nice and fresh right out of the garden… So, yes!!!! it is a nice time when the island seems to rise a couple of feet higher when so many leave….I like it……I am sure it is the same for you……Island living is a very special way of life….working around ferry schedules and such..some people can and many can’t…I grew up with it..so it is natural for me….and you have been around it long enought to love it too!
Oh yes. I love the ferry and all the little troubles associated it, racing to catch it, missing it, getting chowder while you wait for the next one, waiting in line to get on, going to get coffee while waiting in line, storms, ice, wind, glory days on top with blue skies and sailboats on the horizon, it’s always an adventure. And always beautiful and evocative. The first hour of my first date with Joe took place under these circumstances, I’ll never forget that February ride.
I just had to share! I found 3 dinner plates, 2 bowls (different sizes), 5 cups and 5 saucers of Johnson Brothers Rose Chintz china (which I call Susan Branch china) today in a flea market for $7. Only one of the cups had a chip that’s noticeable and it does not interfere with drinking. And I also found at a yard sale the Tasha Tudor-designed figurine of Amy from Little Women for $1. It seems Tasha Tudor and Susan Branch will be forever linked for me (since I met you the day after I toured Tasha’s house in June). In addition, one of the ladies who came to my Tasha Tudor Birthday Party is also a FOSB!
Seven Dollars (I hope you read that as a little scream!) Oh my goodness, what a deal Cathy. It’s kindred spirits isn’t it?
You know Cathy, you have become yard sale person extraordinare! I can’t believe all these great finds and almost always under $10. Can I go with you next time?
Chris
What a lovely island!I adore the Beatrix Potter painting of that beautiful garden gate! It takes my breath away! I can see why you love it! It’s raining here and it’s so beautiful. Everything is so luscious and green. I get to sit and enjoy my tomato soup with chicken salad and tea while reading your lovely words. What day could be better? Thank you for taking us on a little trip every time you write. May God bless you!
Thank you Faith!
Oh Susan! Another beauteous blog post. I loved it so and never have been to Nantucket in all these years. Now another “must go there”! Thank you so much for all your wonderful words, photos and feelings which I always enjoy, sometimes even more than enjoy.
I am so blessed, my son’s wedding to someone I love is tomorrow, and just back from riding 901 miles in Europe. I’m looking forward to whatever you will write the next time…
Happy Wedding Sally! I’m so happy for you . . . welcome home!
Thank you so much for the mini-vacation. I needed it, my life isn’t very happy at the moment. I have some good news though…I’m fostering a cat whose owner, our elderly neighbor, passed away last month. His “family” cleaned out his house, put it up for sale, abandoned Miss Kitty, and told us they didn’t care if we shot her. 🙁 I tried to catch her for weeks, in the meantime making sure she had food and water. She got away from me once, but last Sunday, I managed to snag her in another neighbor’s garage (he was kind enough to answer his front door to a stranger clutching an open can of cat food at 9:30 at night!) and she’s been staying in our powder room ever since. She was registered so we managed to get her vet’s info. I’m hoping she can stay, but not sure she’ll tolerate our 2 big dogs and 5 cats…but whatever happens, she’s safe and won’t be put out to fend for herself again. And…she’s a Tuxedo! She is 12 or 15, not a young girl, and VERY vocal. I needed a dose of happiness…how can people be so cruel to a defenseless creature…and your blog provided that, as always. I’ve never been to Nantucket but it’s on my list, I love the Cape. Thank you again, Susan~Elizabeth
Thank God for you Elizabeth. Sending love, and prayers for things to get better around you. It’s a wonderful thing you did. xoxo
Elizabeth, if your new kitty is registered, is ‘Miss Kitty’ her real name? If it is it will be a great help to her and you.
I felt so sad for several reasons when I read your story and it would be heartbreaking if the elderly man knew about his poor little pet. who was most likely his best company.
On a happy note, you have jumped in as an angel to help and little by little I hope the newest addition to your pet family will know that she has a safe home to live in.
You have been so kind to this lovely little kitty.
Yes, her name is “Miss Kitty”. We call her “Miss Victoria Kitty of Tuxedo”. She joins Princess Fluffy Prettypaws, Lady Fiona Midnight, Sir Dandylion Whiskers of Purrsalot, Admiral Fletcher Spruence, and Sir Benjamin Jet…in addition to the dogs, Skye and Boudica. 🙂 Thank you both for your kind words.
You are a HECK of a good kitty-namer!
They just declared today to be National Bacon Day , on TV —- so it’s B L Ts for everyone !
Let’s make it BLT week!
Oh yeah! The tomatoes are at their peak & I bought more bacon yesterday! I think this is the only time of the year when bacon is legal? 🙂
Ok blt and egg salad week…on smooshy white bread!
Dear Susan,
Lovely post, as always. Nantucket is truly magical. Our kids gave us a trip there for our 25th anniversary — and we just celebrated our 48th. So it must be time to plan another trip. What I love about Nantucket — and so many other places in New England — is how people respect old buildings, old things, and old traditions and work hard to preserve them. Thanks for rekindling memories of a magical place.
Looking forward to September, cooler days, your Autumn book, bringing out my pumpkins and getting ready to hunker down with big pots of soup simmering on the stove.
Happy Labor Day weekend and thanks again for rejuvenating my spirits!
Nancye T.
Wells, Maine
From living here, I know what a battle it is to preserve and especially to keep new buildings in the same architectural tradition. People are always trying to sneak in something “less than” — Nantucket is amazing because the entire island is protected. Our island is a bit more spotty when it comes to that. But our open spaces are truly cared for.
Susan,
Fall has arrived here in Sunny California….YES IT HAS…..YOUR AUTUMN BOOKS CAME YESTERDAY. I got home late saw the box and tore right into it (very nicely though) It was just what I needed after a very emotional week…My beautiful Aunt Agatha (102 and 8 months) who I have mentioned many times…passed away on Monday. She was a teacher and had over 1000 books (that is not a typo) she really did have that many books…..so YOUR AUTUMN BOOKS WERE JUST THE PERFECT GIFT FOR ME. Thanks for the beautiful books…they are presents….I have the first edition that I treasure and you signed last year for me in SLO in Nov. I love my book….it is used and even faded some what…I put it next to the new ones and they just shine and glisten and the ribbon is so nice. But just like me…my book is just getting better with age !!!! Thanks for all the wonderful things you do for all of girlfriends. Love, Susan P.
Ohhhh, I’m so sorry, and even a little happy for your beautiful Aunt Agatha with the gift of books. Thank you Susan — I’m amazed the Autumn books are arriving so soon.
Susan ~~~ Thank you for this post!! I’m very relaxed now. 🙂 we just got back from a week in Spokane babysitting the twin boys. They kept us very busy…. so much energy! They are now 15 months old. I needed this post!
I loved all the pictures of the homes, water, etc etc. I want to go. I had to laugh when you said you have decided not to wait another 10 years before going. And only an hour away. We do the same thing. The town that I was born and raised is only 12 miles away. Do you think we go over there much? Noooooo. I even forget there is another town when all our shopping, friends, etc is here in town. I often tell my husband that we really should go places more often.
I got notice that your book has been shipped. I’m hoping that I get it today. Can hardly wait to read it!
I’m off to read my e-mail that has collected this past week. Oh, the class reunion was soooo good!! Most classmates were there is seems. But, we’re losing so many…. 18 this past 5 years. So sad.
xoxox,
Carol M
Welcome home Carol. xoxo
Bourbon in apple pie – hmmm, I have to try that. I put a post-it reminder in my Joy of Cooking cookbook next to the apple pie recipes so I will remember to try it.
Well, let us know how it goes!
Had to chime in again….just got me mail and my autumn book was there. How beautiful! Loved the ribbon and thank you for taking the time to sign them. First day of my vacation and my very own autumn book. I am a happy girl!
I think I should have said “my” mail. :-). So happy I didn’t stop to proofread!
LOL Joy!
ALready! How wonderful. I thought maybe the holiday would slow them down!
Oh Susan, you make my day with every single post :)))))))))))
I suppose I should try to be more creative in my writing, because I’ve said this before, but I just love your blogs dear sweet Susan, thank you! Coincidentally, we just spent a few days in beautiful Mendocino, our little Nantucket of the West & it too was wonderful! Blessings abound, aren’t we so lucky! xoxoxo
We are Joan!
Oh…Um…Girl Kitty…your face is just beautiful and so are your loving eyes.
Thank you for all of the wonderful pictures of your stay on Nantucket. It is a place that has interested me and so has Martha’s Vineyard. Over the years, I have always thought of these places as dreamy and magical and now I know through your pictures that they are.
You have opened up a whole other wonderful world for so many of us that love you. Susan you take amazing pictures.
Audrey.
Thank you Audrey, you are my inspiration — always thinking, what would the Girlfriends like to see!
Done with my 2nd package — you do good work , intriguing
You just made my day. “Intriguing” — thank you. xoxo